5 It could have been sold for more than a year's wages[1] and the money given to the poor." And they rebuked her harshly.

Other Translations of Mark 14:5

King James Version

5 For it might have been sold for more than three hundred pence, and have been given to the poor. And they murmured against her.

English Standard Version

5 For this ointment could have been sold for more than three hundred denariiA denarius was a day's wage for a laborer and given to the poor." And they scolded her.

The Message

5 This perfume could have been sold for well over a year's wages and handed out to the poor." They swelled up in anger, nearly bursting with indignation over her.

New King James Version

5 For it might have been sold for more than three hundred denarii and given to the poor." And they criticized her sharply.

New Living Translation

5 "It could have been sold for a year's wages and the money given to the poor!" So they scolded her harshly.

Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 14:5

Commentary on Mark 14:1-11

(Read Mark 14:1-11)

Did Christ pour out his soul unto death for us, and shall we think any thing too precious for him? Do we give him the precious ointment of our best affections? Let us love him with all the heart, though it is common for zeal and affection to be misunderstood and blamed; and remember that charity to the poor will not excuse any from particular acts of piety to the Lord Jesus. Christ commended this woman's pious attention to the notice of believers in all ages. Those who honour Christ he will honour. Covetousness was Judas' master lust, and that betrayed him to the sin of betraying his Master; the devil suited his temptation to that, and so conquered him. And see what wicked contrivances many have in their sinful pursuits; but what appears to forward their plans, will prove curses in the end.